US Arms Stockpile Crisis in Spring 2026 Forces Japan and South Korea to Seek Alternative Defense Options

 The 2026 arms supply crisis, fueled by the ongoing war in Iran, is pushing Asian allies like Japan and South Korea to explore domestic defense alternatives. Delays in Patriot and Tomahawk missile deliveries highlight Washington's strategic struggle to manage multi-front conflicts in May 2026. Military leaders warn that replenishing stocks could take two years, urging Europe to rapidly rebuild its defense industry as the U.S. prioritizes Middle Eastern operations over traditional 2026 continental security commitments.